Wednesday, October 8, 2014

Samesun Backpackers Lodge Kelowna, BC!


People who stay at the Samesun Kelowna say it has everything you need...which is hardly surprising since it's Canada's first custom built hostel! Amuse yourself on Okanagan Lake in Summer, on the mountains in Winter or in the hostel anytime. They've got foosball, ping pong, a BBQ...and even a hot tub! You'll make plenty of friends in the hostel and out with the activities they organise every single night. Dorms start from $24. 

Here are just a few reasons to stay at Samesun Kelowna:
  • Prime location - close to the beach and downtown
  • Large kitchen and common areas to meet other travellers
  • Regular activities including pub crawls and boat parties
  • Free breakfast :)
  • Free wifi and coffee machine
Find out more and book your next trip on their website! http://samesun.com/backpackers-hostels/kelowna/

Hostel of the Week, October 8th to October 15th 2014

Wednesday, October 1, 2014

The Hostel Bear, Canmore, Alberta!

It's almost time for ski season so why not start planning your accommodation now? The Hostel Bear, Canmore is ideally located next to the Rockies for all you skiiers out there. Their big comfy, leather couches and gas fire are also great after a day of -30 temperatures. And the local Grizzly Paw beer they have on draft aint that bad either. Prices are inexpensive versus other accommodation it area. Dorm beds start at $35 per night. 

Here are just a few reasons to stay at The Hostel Bear:
  • Great location to explore and ski the Rockies
  • Comfortable and warm lounge and games room to meet other travellers
  • Ambient heated flooring
  • Discounts from local merchants
  • Free wifi, coffee and tea
  • Free parking
You can find out more and start planning your trip here: http://www.thehostelbear.com/

Hostel of the Week, October 1st to October 7th 2014

Friday, September 12, 2014

Win a Whistler Blackcomb getaway!


Wanna ski in Whistler Blackcomb but you're on a backpacker budget? VPO and Icebreaker are proud to present a competition which will help you do exactly that! All you need to do is click on the link for your chance to win. You can also enter as many times as you want. Good luck! Click here to enter!


Tuesday, September 9, 2014

Hedley Inn & Hostel in Hedley, BC!

When you step into Hedley it feels like you've been transported to the old Wild West. The town itself very much as an old style feel to it and one of the main attractions there is the old mine. Hedley Inn & Hostel does not go against this Wild West look with an exterior which is very much inkeeping with the rest of the town. Inside you'll find comfortable accommodation (including inbuilt wooden bunks in the dorms) at an affordable price. The management are extremely knowledgeable about the area. Before you go out to explore though remember to try some of the great baking downstairs, the carrot cake is a must! Dorms start from $29 plus tax (2 person booking minimum) 

Here are just a few reasons to stay at Hedley Inn & Hostel:
  • Great location to explore Similkameen river valley
  • Common room with TV and DVD collection
  • Premium mattresses, pillows and linens
  • Free wifi, coffee and tea
  • Easily accessible by bus, the greyhound bus station is right next to the hostel
You can find out more and start planning your trip here: http://www.hedleyinn.ca/

Hostel of the Week, September 9th to September 16th 2014

Tuesday, September 2, 2014

Norris Point International Hostel, Newfoundland!

You've stayed in a jail. You've stayed in a lighthouse. You've stayed in an old school house. But have you ever stayed in a hospital? Norris Point International Hostel gives you the chance to do exactly that. Guests have commented on how unique this accommodation so why not check it out yourself? If you are looking for budget accommodation to stay in Gros Morne National Park then this is your place to stay. There are options of a dorm room (in an old hospital ward), doubles or privates. Email the hostel directly for rates. 

Here are just a few other reasons to stay at Norris Point International Hostel:
  • Great location to explore Gros Morne National Park
  • Common room and communal to meet other guests
  • Free towel and linen
  • Give something back to the community, the hostel is run and owned by Bonne Bay Cottage Hospital Heritage Corporation
You can find out more and start planning your trip here: http://www.norrispoint.ca/files/BonneBayHostel.pdf

Hostel of the Week, September 2nd to September 9th 2014

Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Charlottetown Backpackers Inn in Charlottetown, PEI!

Charlottetown Backpackers Inn is the only place to stay if you're in Charlottetown. This was the third stop in my tour of East Canada and I felt instantly at home here. Within 5 mins I'd already been invited out to a staff dinner and felt super welcome. The place is awesome too. Rooms are clean, beds are comfy and the common room is a great place to sit, watch a video (yup they still have videos in circulation) and meet new friends. They've also got a secondary common room with a million records and a pool table if you're looking for a bit of a change. Make sure to get up for breakfast - Levi's chocolate and banana cake is legendary. Dorm rooms start from $32 for non-HI members. 

Here are just a few other reasons to stay at Charlottetown Backpackers Inn:
  • Instantly welcoming and a great place to explore PEI from
  • Enjoy regular impromptu activities with the staff including music trivia night (try it, you'll love it!)
  • Clean comfortable rooms
  • Free breakfast including banana cake, fruit, bread and coffee
  • Free wifi
  • Great communal areas for meeting people including two common rooms and an outside seating area Extremely comfy beds!
  • Super friendly staff and an extra friendly owner (Levi, you'll hear a story or two)
  • A place to make new friends
You can find out more and start planning your trip here: http://www.charlottetownbackpackers.com/

Hostel of the Week, August 27th to September 2nd 2014

Tuesday, August 19, 2014

Bear on the Lake in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia!

The second stop on my trip out east was Cape Breton. An absolutely picturesque place with a great hostel to go with! I stayed at Bear on the Lake - a place I had previously researched for this bog and had a desire to visit. I was not disappointed. During my short stay the staff became like family with one of the girls even making me a sandwich before a day trip. I made the most of my time there going on a trek, playing Twister (multiple times), mastered Jenga and sat round a bonfire exchanging jokes. I even had time to take in the stunning view from the hostel. Bear on the Lake is great if you're looking for a place to relax after hiking the Cabot Trail and you WILL find yourself getting involved in the community atmosphere! Dorms start from $32 (without an HI membership). 

Here are just a few other reasons to stay at Bear on the Lake:
  • Great homely atmosphere, the hostel is like a big family house
  • Stunning view
  • Friendly, welcoming staff who will do their best to make you feel like part of the family
  • Ideal place for exploring all the wildlife and treks the area has to offer, a car makes this easier though teaming up with another guest or hitchhiking are also options
  • Pick up from the nearest town, though this should be pre-arranged!
  • Extremely comfy beds!
  • Massive common room with games on offer and a bonfire for socialising later in the evening
  • Free coffee and wifi
You can find out more and start planning your trip here: http://bearonthelake.com/

Hostel of the Week, August 19th to August 26th 2014